Which Type of Bicycle Should You Buy?

Browse Bicycle Reviews On All Of The Top Bicycles

Bicycling is not only good for your health and wellness but for your pocket book as well. The benefits to your health and weight can be seen after just a few weeks of riding while the benefits to your bank account can be seen in just a few days. Whether you are taking up bicycling for sport, recreation or transportation, you need to know which bicycle fits your needs.

Questions to Ask Yourself

The first question to ask yourself is: what will you be using the bicycle for? Do you want it strictly for exercise or for transportation? Where will you primarily be riding? Dirt trails or roads? Darting through the streets of Chicago or leisurely cruising on a bike path?

Mountain Bike

Perhaps the most popular bicycle in America today, the Mountain Bike is acclaimed for its versatility. They can be seen in urban settings, as well as on mountain trails. Mountain bikes generally have 24 speeds, flat handle bars and a suspension system with front, rear or full-suspension.

Women's Health Watch: Did you know that bicycling is a top doctor-recommended exercise for management of diabetes? Exercise is hugely important for diabetics; the more exercise you get, the less insulin you need.

Gary Fisher: One of the most popular brands on the market, Gary Fisher actually coined the term “Mountain Bike.” Having built mountain bikes since the 1970’s, Gary Fisher translates this experience into cutting-edge designs based on user-feedback. His line of bicycles are designed for speed, race, trail, kids or pavement. For women, Gary Fisher has created the Genesisters line which is specially designed for a women’s center of gravity.

Giant: Giant has been a workhorse in the bicycle industry for many years. They emphasize on quality and dependability making the designs more functional than stylish. Though slightly more expensive than some other brands, Giant makes up for it in performance and selection. Giant carries road, mountain, lifestyle, BMX and kids bicycles for both men and women.

Klein: Klein is a top-of-the-line producer, with handcrafted bicycles scientifically designed for proper weight. They also put quite a bit of effort into their paint jobs making them some of the most gorgeous looking bikes on the market. Riders give acclaim to the light frame, sturdy design and overall “Cadillac” feel.

Road Bike

Hit the pavement with a sleek and stylish road bicycle. These resemble the classic “10-speed” bicycles, with handle bars that curve downward like ram’s horns. Today’s road bicycles are lighter and faster than the 10-speeds of the past, sometimes with only 1 speed or upwards of 12. These bikes are used for races, long-distance rides, sprints and more. These bikes trade comfort for speed and should never be used for off-road cycling.

Trek: Perhaps the largest company on the market, Trek has gained this success from producing high-quality bicycles that please consumers. They have high-end and low-end options, but all with the same quality you’d expect from Trek. Their selection of women’s bikes is practically unmatched.

Schwinn: With over 100 years of experience, Schwinn is one of the oldest and most trusted brands in bicycling. Schwinn still continues to produce quality bicycles at affordable prices. Trek has an enormous selection of bicycles, motor scooters and fitness equipment.

Bianchi: As one of the higher-end manufacturers of road bikes, Bianchi is an international company that outfits many professional cyclists. Just look at the Tour de France and you’ll see plenty of Bianchi labels.

Cruiser Bike

Built for comfort and ease of use, cruiser bicycles are popular for those wanting a functional bicycle for Sunday afternoon rides or a daily trek to work. Their larger seats are more comfortable and the soft grips and ergonomic design are comfortable for your arms, back and shoulders. These bicycles are also great for beginners and generally only have one speed.

Raleigh: Raleigh has one of the best selections of cruisers. Not only do they boast a popular retro-look but they are comfortable and functional.

Mongoose: Having gained notoriety as a BMX manufacturer, Mongoose now makes durable cruisers that are built for a long commute or a comfortable ride on a bike path. They have a basic, no-frills style with plenty of emphasis on good, quality parts.

Huffy: The classic bike company makes classic cruisers and comfort bikes. Huffy offers both retro and functional designs. Huffy bikes are affordable and easy to maintain.

Electric Bike

Some bicycle “purists” look down on electric bicycles because they use a battery-powered motor for on-demand acceleration. True, you won’t be the only one powering your bicycle, but when you are looking up a one-mile hill and its 100 degrees outside, that battery powered motor will be a blessing.

Elec Trec: Chosen by electric-bikes.com as their Editor’s choice of 2007, the Elec Trec bicycle is the result of three years of customer feedback and changes. It originally started as the famous electric bike, the Lashout and with upgrades based on user performance; they have redesigned and re-launched it as the Elec Trec. It has full-suspension, a kick stand and looks like a traditional mountain bike. It has a manual throttle for no effort riding. The average cost is $800.

The Charger: This electric bike has a pedal-powered motor, which engages when it senses you are exerting more energy than normal. It is not a no-effort ride, but an “assisted” effort. Priced at around $1500, this is a bicycle for those who need an extra boost when climbing hills or traveling extended distances.

Currie Technologies: This is the third-type of electric bike available on the market, but it isn’t a bicycle at all. It is a kit that attaches to nearly all standard, 26-inch bicycles. It is called the “Electro Drive System”, and it serves as a no-effort attachment, as well as an assisted-effort attachment to your favorite bicycle.

Overview

In general, a good rule of thumb when purchasing a bicycle is, “you get what you pay for.” Those heavy, cheap bicycles at the big-box stores have inferior parts and materials, which will make you’re riding experience much less enjoyable. But, if you take time to research the right type of bike, you should also spend what it takes to get the bike that is right for you. Bicycles can last ten years or more, so see it as an investment. You don’t have to buy top-of-the-line, but you should select a good mid-grade bicycle. If you really don’t have the cash for a nice model, at least purchase a bicycle with a good, light frame. You can then spend money on better parts as you can afford them. Most of all, have fun and enjoy the scenery on your healthy ride.

What Types Of Hobbies Are For You?

Do you ever wonder what types of hobbies are for you? Hobbies renew lost passions and can refresh, relax, and even energize. Whether you enjoy dumpster diving for antique treasures or wrapping your mind around a New York Times' crossword puzzle, hobbies can be an enjoyable part of your day. For the more adventurous kind, skydiving may answer the call for adventure while others prefer a creative outlet with arts and crafts. Take this quiz, and discover what types of hobbies are for you.